Device for displaying and/or transporting an item

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to a device comprising a transparent membrane attached to a substantially solid surface that together form a sealable pocket for insertion of an item to be displayed or transported.

PRIOR APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 60/109,933 filed Nov. 25, 1998, U.S. Ser. No. 60/164,177 filed Nov. 9, 1999; U.S. Ser. No. 09/448,813 filed Nov. 24, 1999; PCT/US99/28049 filed Nov. 24, 1999; U.S. Ser. No. 60/206,927 filed May 24, 2000; and U.S. Ser. No. 60/______, filed Dec. 20, 2000, each of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety into this application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to a device comprising a transparent membrane attached to a substantially solid surface that together form a sealable pocket for insertion of an item to be displayed or transported.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] An envelope is used to protect and hide its contents during transit. The window envelope is an exception to this as it exposes a small area so that a name and address can be viewed. A postcard is a single piece of card that normally has space for writing a name, address and message on one side with a photographic print or similar on the other. Conventional postcards are produced in numbers and as a result can only offer impersonal scenes or graphics. The instant invention allows a person to send a photograph, or any suitable item personal or otherwise, within a sealable pocket suitable for mailing. Others have attempted to provide such a device, as indicated below.

[0004] Matsuguchi, et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,005,874) disclose a postcard material bearing a label covering at least part of the postcard material. The label has a top material that is at least partly opaque, an inter-layer peel ply formed on the principal surface of the top material, a synthetic resin layer at least partly transparent formed on the principal surface of the inter-layer peel ply and an adhesive layer formed on the principal surface of the synthetic resin layer and which is transparent in the part corresponding to the transparent part of the synthetic resin layer. With this postcard the top material of the label can be peeled off the synthetic resin layer in the part where the interlayer peel ply is formed. Secret information shown on the principal surface of the postcard material is visible through the transparent synthetic resin layer when the top material is peeled off the synthetic resin layer. In contrast to the device of Matsuguchi, the instant invention does not require a peel ply. In addition, the postcard of Matsuguchi is not amenable to the safe and efficient mailing of an item such as a personal photograph, as is the instant invention.

[0005] Balogh et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,087) disclose a mailing card that is formed of a single sheet of card stock in which a perforated delineation extends entirely across the sheet of card stock to define first and second portions thereof and to facilitate complete separation of those portions from each other. An opening with at least one transparent window tinted in a first color is defined in the first portion of the card stock. Matter is printed on the second portion of the card stock in both the color of the window and in at least one other contrasting color. By separating the first and second portions of the card stock, hidden messages printed on the second portion may be viewed through the window in the first portion that masks the matter printed in the same color as the window. The instant invention does not require various shades of tinting and is not designed for reading of hidden messages by viewing one portion of the card through a separated second portion of the card.

[0006] Glick (U.S. Pat. No. 4,807,807) provides a postcard formed from a sheet-form member, for example a card, which is provided with a first layer of adhesive. An additional transparent sheet is secured along one edge, preferably its upper edge, to the card and is provided with a second layer of adhesive. A protective sheet is located between the two layers of adhesive to keep them separate. In use, a photograph or other article can be secured and sandwiched between the sheet-form member and the transparent sheet. In contrast, the instant invention does not require that the article be adhered to the postcard.

[0007] Murrell (U.S. Pat. No. 4,237,633) provides a photograph mailing postcard having two flap portions is described. This postcard of Murrell requires an adhesive strip for attaching a photograph for viewing through the window in the bottom flap. Adhesive is also provided on the front side of one of the flap portions for adhering the two flap portions together following attachment of the photograph. In contrast, the instant invention does not require the use of an adhesive upon the display surface to hold the item, such as a photograph, in place.

[0008] Suttles et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,662,093) provide a device having first and second panels connected by a hinge joint for folding together. The front surface of the first panel is capable of receiving a design and the rear surface thereof has a paper release sheet covering a pressure sensitive adhesive which holds the photograph in place and also holds the card in folded condition. The front surface of the second panel is a support surface for a photograph and includes a small area of pressure sensitive adhesive for temporarily holding a photograph in place. The rear surface of the second panel comprises a message-address postcard surface. An opening cut through the first panel is arranged to display a photograph there through when the panels are folded shut and held shut by the adhesive on the rear surface of the first panel. In contrast, the instant invention does not require an adhesive upon the display surface to hold the item, such as a photograph, in place.

[0009] Davis (U.S. Pat. No. 4,008,852) provides a mailing card comprises first and second card sections which are foldable together. The first card section contains an adhesive surface for carrying an object such as a photograph. A removable backing sheet overlies the adhesive surface. The second card section has an opening situated for general alignment with the adhesive surface when the first and second card sections are in a folded condition. A transparent cover extends across the opening. In contrast, the instant invention does not require an adhesive upon the display surface to hold the item, such as a photograph, in place. In addition, the card material is not folded to seal the item upon the photograph.

[0010] Ross (U.S. Pat. No. 4,953,780) provides a postcard entirely covered on one side with adhesive and overlaid with a protective sheet. In contrast, the instant invention does not require an adhesive upon the display surface to hold the item, such as a photograph, in place.

[0011] Sabb (U.S. Pat. No. 4,079,881) provides a postcard including relatively rigid panel made of cardboard, or the like, having a writing surface on one side thereof and a photograph display surface on the other side thereof. The photograph display surface has a layer of adhesive thereon to which is secured a clear plastic sheet beneath which a photograph is secured. In contrast, the instant invention does not require that an item, such as a photograph, be adjoined to the card material using an adhesive.

[0012] Sorge et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,788,144) provide a combined picture frame and mailer formed of a single piece of reinforced paper folded along a horizontal axis into two substantially equal halves forming front and back panels. The front panel has a central cutout providing a window behind which the picture is placed and which is covered by a transparent sheet of cellophane. The back panel is provided with flaps about its remaining peripheral edges which fold over the corresponding edges of the front panel, and which are sealed to form a closed thin envelope. The back panel is also provided with fold out legs permitting the frame to stand alone on a flat surface such as a table as well as space in which the user may write a message as on a postcard. In contrast, the instant invention does not require the user to fold the card material to seal the item, such as a photograph, within the postcard. In addition, the user is not required to fold multiple flaps in order to seal the item within the card.

[0013] EP 584 205 relates to a document support having a solid support surface and a transparent sheet covering the support surface. The transparent sheet may be affixed to the card by a strippable film, forming a pocket. However, there are disadvantages associated with the document support that are overcome by the present invention. One such advantage relates to a mechanism for safely removing the contents of the document support, and that advantage is provided by the instant invention.

[0014] In view of the above description of the related art, one of skill in the art would recognize the need for further advancement in the field. For instance, previously described devices do not provide the user with a safe, efficient method for removing an item from the area in which the item to be displayed or transported resides. The present invention provides such advantages by, for instance, providing a zippered score for simple and convenient re-opening of the pocket of the device without causing damage to the item sealed within the pocket. Other advantages may be ascertained after consideration of the description set forth below.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] It is an object of the invention to provide a sealable device for displaying and/or transporting an item. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a device comprising a pocket made up of a transparent membrane or sheet partially affixed to a solid surface such that an optionally sealable pocket is formed. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a zippered score on the solid surface such that, following the sealing of the pocket, the contents can be removed by breaking the zippered score. In an exemplary embodiment, a device is shown that is suitable for enclosing a photograph. In another embodiment, the surface of the solid surface opposite the pocket comprises an area for writing, such that a type of postcard is provided.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a card having an upper and a lower surface and a first, second, third and fourth edge; a transparent membrane having an upper and a lower surface where the upper and lower surface of the transparent membrane each further comprise a first, second, third and fourth edge; where the lower surface of the transparent membrane is positioned adjacent to the upper surface of the card; where the second, third and fourth edge of the transparent membrane and the card are affixed to one another; where the card comprises a sealing means on its first edge that is not affixed to the transparent membrane and wherein said sealing means can be optionally activated to substantially affix the first edge of the transparent membrane to the first edge of the card, thus providing a sealable pocket; wherein said lower surface of said card further comprises an area for writing; said card further comprising a zippered score for removal of the contents of the pocket.

[0017] The invention will be better understood and additional objects and advantages will become apparent from the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1. A preferred embodiment of the device of the invention.

[0019]FIG. 2. Another embodiment with an alternative sealing arrangement.

[0020]FIG. 3. Construction of a device of the invention: Method No. 1.

[0021]FIG. 4. Construction of a device of the invention: Method No. 2.

[0022]FIG. 5. Construction of a device of the invention: Method No. 3

[0023]FIG. 6. Alternative Positions of Tear off Strips on the device of the invention.

[0024]FIG. 7. Drawings 2 a to 2 d show the possible positioning of the fold over sealing tab.

[0025]FIG. 8. An exemplary embodiment of the PhotoFits® device.

[0026]FIG. 9. An exemplary embodiment of the PhotoFits® device.

[0027]FIG. 10. An exemplary embodiment of the PhotoFits® device. 1. Optionally activatable adhesive strip. 2. Score line. 3. Adhesive joining card and membrane materials. 4. Gap in adhesive. 5. Bottom edge adhesive joining card and membrane materials. 6. Support means comprising adhesive material joining card and membrane materials.

[0028]FIG. 11. An exemplary embodiment of the PhotoFits® device, the Foldable Photo Mailer (FPM).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present invention relates to a device for displaying and/or transporting an item. In one embodiment, the device provides a pocket into which an item may be inserted and shielded, such as a photograph. In a preferred embodiment, one side of the pocket is transparent and the pocket is sealable following insertion of the item into the pocket. In a most preferred embodiment, the device comprises a substantially solid surface upon which a second surface is partially attached to form a pocket between the two surfaces. It is preferred that the pocket be optionally sealable. In a preferred embodiment, the second surface is substantially clear such that the item contained in the pocket can be viewed. It is to be understood that many items, singularly or in combination, may be stored in the pocket for viewing and/or transport, for example. Non-limiting exemplary items that could be inserted into the pocket may include a photograph, a coupon, a computer disk, CD, or a DVD.

[0030] The device of the present invention comprises a substantially solid material having multiple edges. The substantially solid material may be of any shape or size. Preferably the material comprises four edges, being similar in shape and size to a conventional postcard. It is understood that a skilled artisan may produce a suitable material for practicing the present invention that has, for example, three, or five or more edges. The substantially solid material may also be circular, oval, or irregular in shape, for example. A second material to be attached to the solid material, such as a transparent membrane may accordingly comprise a number of edges that is preferably consistent with the number of edges on the substantially solid material itself. For example, where the substantially solid material forms a card having three edges, the second material may comprise three edges, consistent with the solid material. It is to be understood that many suitable variations are possible, and are encompassed by the present invention.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material is substantially similar to a card, such as a postcard or index card. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material is #67 card stock. In another preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material comprises a coating appropriate for acceptance of a polypropylene, PET, RPET, PVC or other suitable transparent or opaque material (i.e., a transparent membrane). In a more preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material is solid bleach sulphate (SBS) base blister card stock. In a preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material has four edges and an upper and a lower surface as typically utilized in a conventional postcard. In such an embodiment, the upper surface of the substantially solid material is coated with a solvent base blister coating suitable for acceptance of a polypropylene, PVC or other suitable transparent or opaque material. In yet another embodiment, the second material, such as a transparent membrane, for example, may be formulated to accept print. One production method that can be used for producing a transparent membrane that can accept print is the corona process as is well known in the art.

[0032] The device may be of any size suitable for use as described herein and understood by those of skill in the art. It is preferred that the device be of a size suitable for mailing in the United States or other country. For example, in one embodiment, the device is approximately 5 inches high by 6.5 inches wide. In another embodiment, the device is 4¾ inches high by 6½ inches wide. In yet another embodiment, the device is approximately 3½ inches high by 5 inches wide. Those of skill in the art understand that certain modifications to the size of the device may need to be made in order to process the device through the various mailing systems found throughout the world.

[0033] The device may be of any suitable thickness, provided the thickness is consistent with the use of the device as described herein. In one embodiment, the card material is approximately from 0.005 to 0.08 inches thick, and in another embodiment is approximately from 0.009 inches to 0.02 inches thick. In a preferred embodiment, the card is approximately 0.0165 inches thick. In one embodiment, the second material, such as the transparent membrane, is approximately 0.001 to 0.08 inches thick. In another embodiment, the membrane is approximately 0.006 inches to 0.02 inches thick. In a preferred embodiment, the transparent membrane is approximately 0.0075 inches thick.

[0034] This card material may further be of any color that does not prevent legible addresses and postmarks from being placed on the card. Preferably, the card is white, light blue, light green, yellow, pink or tan/buff in color. In a preferred embodiment, the color is one that falls within the postal regulations of the United States or other country. However, any suitable color may be used to practice the instant invention.

[0035] In one embodiment, the device provides a pocket for enclosing an item such as a photograph for mailing. The postcard comprises a card material, such as 67 “pound” stock or similar material that is likely to have dimensions approximately equal or greater than 3½″ width by 5″ length that has an upper and a lower surface. A pocket is fixably attached to the postcard, the pocket being preferably formed by two layers of transparent membrane and one of a number of arrangements (see below) that can seal the mailing item (e.g. a photograph) within the aforementioned pocket during transit. The transparent membrane layers each have upper and lower surfaces and the upper and lower surfaces of the membranes further comprise a first, second, third and fourth edge. The two transparent membrane layers are sealed together along three of their four edges to form a pocket. Preferably the edges are heat-sealed. The fourth edge is preferably not sealed to allow the insertion of the item to be mailed. As discussed below, it is not necessary that the edges be continuously fixed to one another; gaps may be provided to ease insertion of item(s) into the pocket, for example.

[0036] The lower surface of the transparent membrane pocket is attached to the upper surface of the said card by means of a suitable adhesive such as, for example, transparent adhesive spray manufactured by 3M. The lower surface of the post card preferably contains an area for writing.

[0037] In another embodiment, the device comprises a card material such as 67 “pound” stock or similar having dimensions approximately equal to or greater than 3½″ width by 5″ length and having an upper and lower surface. In this embodiment, a transparent membrane having an upper and a lower surface where the upper and lower surface of the transparent membrane each further comprise a first, second, third and fourth edge is provided. Preferably the lower surface of the first, second and third edge of said transparent membrane are each partially but fixably attached by means of a suitable transparent adhesive such as, for example, a transparent adhesive spray manufactured by 3M to the upper surface of the card to form a pocket into which an item may be inserted. The lower surface of said card contains an area for writing. Thus, a postcard having a sealable pocket for insertion of an item and a surface for including a message is provided.

[0038] In yet another embodiment, the postcard comprises a card material such as 67 “pound” stock or similar material that is likely to have dimensions approximately equal or greater than 3½″ width by 5″ length having an upper and a lower surface and a transparent membrane having an upper and lower surface. The upper and lower surfaces of the transparent membrane each further comprise a first, second, third and fourth edge. The transparent membrane is preferably of greater length and width than that of the said card. As a result, three of the four edges of the transparent membrane overlap the edges of the said card material. The three edges that overlap the said card are folded to allow the lower surface of the transparent layer to be fixed to the lower surface of the said card along its three corresponding edges by means of a suitable transparent adhesive such as, transparent adhesive spray manufactured by 3M. The lower surface of said card preferably comprises an area for writing. Accordingly, a postcard having a sealable pocket for insertion of an item and a surface for including a message is provided.

[0039] The device further comprises a sealing means for enclosing an item within the pocket The sealing means may include but is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Many other suitable sealing means are known in the art and could be utilized by the skilled artisan in practising the instant invention.

[0040] In one embodiment, the sealing arrangement comprises an adhesive strip having an upper and lower surface; each of said surfaces comprising adhesive. The lower surface of the adhesive strip is fixed to the upper surface of the card adjacent to an edge of the card. The upper surface of the adhesive strip is covered with a piece of removable material such as paper that prevents the pocket from being sealed until desired by the user, thus providing one example of an optionally activatable means for adhesion. It is possible to utilize a removable material that is longer in length than the edge to which it is fixed to allow for efficient removal. In a preferred embodiment, the removable material does not extend beyond any edge of the device. As such, the length of the adhesive strip is preferably equal to or less than the edge to which it is fixed. To seal the device thus creating the pocket, the paper is removed from the adhesive strip exposing the adhesive and the lower surface of the upper transparent membrane layer may then be fixed to the upper surface of the adhesive strip.

[0041] In another embodiment, the sealing arrangement may comprise an overlapping transparent membrane flap as an integral part of the upper transparent membrane layer of the above designs. The lower surface of the flap may comprise an adhesive strip having and upper and lower surface; each of said surfaces comprising adhesive. The adhesive strip may be fixed to the lower surface of the flap by its upper surface. A paper strip covers the lower surface of the double-sided adhesive strip. To seal the postcard after the mailing item has been inserted into the pocket the paper strip is removed from the lower surface of the adhesive strip to expose the adhesive. The flap is folded over and the lower surface of the adhesive strip is fixed to the lower surface of the card.

[0042] It is preferred that the card comprise a means for removing an item from the sealed pocket without damaging the item contained therein. As such, in one embodiment, the card comprises at least one zippered scored line (a “zippered score”) to provide a convenient method for inserting and removing the photograph from the pocket. The score may be placed anywhere on the card. In one embodiment, the zippered score is positioned in the upper quadrant of the card, relative to the wide edge and closer to the optionally sealable edge of the device. In another embodiment, the zippered score is positioned distal from the optionally sealable edge of the device. In one embodiment, the score is placed approximately 4¼ inches from one of the wide edges on the card.

[0043] The zippered score allows for the easy insertion of, for example, a photograph as the score allows the card area above the zippered score to be folded back (see drawing below). In this embodiment, the score provides access to the plastic pocket on the upper surface of the card after the pocket has been sealed, such as to remove the photograph or other item. As such, it is preferred that the zippered score be positioned between the adhesive strip and the bottom edge of the card (i.e., within the area of the pocket). As described above, the zippered score may be positioned near either the optionally sealable edge or the opposite edge.

[0044] To remove a photograph or other item contained within the pocket, the score is simply broken. In one embodiment, the scored line provides from 5 to 1000 tabs connecting the non-scored portion of the card to the scored portion of the card such that a removable portion is formed. In another embodiment, the score provides from 20 to 500 tabs. Any number of tabs may be included in the scored line such that the pocket remains secured until it is desired to access the pocket. An exemplary embodiment, comprising a pair of scored lines, a removable portion and several tabs is shown below:

[0045] By opening the score and removing the removable portion, a channel is formed that provides access to the sealed pocket containing an item such as a photograph. The item may then be removed from the pocket. The zippered score may also be modified by creating a zippered score end tab to simplify grasping of the zippered score when removing the item contained within the pocket. The zippered score end tab may be made by removing material from the periphery of the zippered score closest to the edge of the device. One embodiment of such a zippered score end tab is shown below:

[0046] In one embodiment, a card having an upper surface and a lower surface is cut to the preferred size and laminated on either the upper or lower surface. In this embodiment, the postcard may comprise a card material, such as 67 “pound” stock or similar material that is likely to have dimensions approximately equal or greater than 3½ width by 5″ length that has an upper surface, a lower surface, and a first, second, third and fourth edge. In a preferred embodiment, the upper surface is laminated. A transparent membrane cut to approximately the same size as the laminated surface of the card is then aligned with the laminated surface of the card. The transparent membrane is then sealed along three of the edges of the card to form a pocket. Preferably, the three edges of the membrane are sealed to the laminated card using heat. The fourth edge is preferably not sealed to allow the insertion of an item such as a photograph. In a most preferred embodiment, the fourth unsealed edge further comprises an adhesive strip and removable material, each being consistent with the edge of the device, as described above. It is further preferred that the card comprises one or more zippered score lines, optionally triangulated, as described above.

[0047] It is also possible to manufacture the corners of the device to comprise a ⅛ inch radius cut. It is preferred that the device have corners that are not round, but are cut at distinct angles, such as approximately 90° where the device is square or rectangular in shape thus producing, for example, four corners. In a preferred embodiment, the cut is made using a die. The cut can be made prior to or following attachment of the plastic membrane to the card. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic membrane, the four corners of which are cut to a ⅛ inch radius, is placed on top of the card and heated along the edges to fix the membrane to the card. In an alternative embodiment, the plastic membrane is affixed to the card and the edges are then cut to a ⅛ inch radius. Preferably, the membrane is affixed along three edges, leaving one edge unattached wherein the item to be contained within the pocket may be inserted.

[0048] Yet another embodiment of a sealing arrangement features the use of an arrangement known as a Ziploc® (DowBrands L. P.) The design of the transparent membrane pocket and the transparent membranes mentioned in the above embodiments can be varied allowing the unsealed edge to be located above either of the cards four edges.

[0049] One method of manufacture is to coat the upper surface of the substantially solid material with a solvent base blister coating suitable for acceptance of polypropylene, PET, RPET, PVC, or other suitable transparent or opaque material. The adhesive strip and removable material is then fixed to the card. The cards are loaded into a machine and the machine takes one card and deposits a piece of transparent membrane on top of the card and then heat seals the three edges of the transparent membrane to the upper surface of the card with its solvent based blister coating to form a pocket. Any excess material is removed and the process is completed. This method overcomes the problems of exact alignment of two separate pieces.

[0050] In one embodiment, a substantially solid material suitable for the preparation of muliple devices of a particular size is utilized. In a preferred embodiment, the substantially solid material is a single sheet, being of a material similar to that of a standard postcard, and being suitable for separation into multiple cards. The sheet may be pre-printed or unprinted. The sheet is coated with a heat activated adhesive on its upper surface, in a pattern consistent with the preparation of multiple cards from the single sheet. A strip of 3M or equivalent, unstructured adhesive with removable material, such as a release liner, is adhered to the full width of the upper surface of the card across its upper edge. This composite piece is then die cut to form individual devices with a zippered score situated below the adhesive with release liner. The card is then placed into a processing instrument where a piece of clear PET or RPET film of the same width and height of the card is placed on top of the sheet. Heat is then applied from the underside of the card in the areas where a seal is required. The clear PET or RPET film is then affixed to the sheet.

[0051] It should be apparent to the skilled artisan that any of the configurations described herein may comprise the laminated card. In addition, the embodiments mentioned above that have a single transparent membrane design may be sealed in a similar fashion when using the aforementioned embodiment of the sealing arrangement.

[0052]FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The drawing in FIG. 7 shows a piece of card 6 inches wide by 4¼ inches high and 0.0156″ thickness upon which lies a layer of 3M transparent adhesive. A pocket formed from 2 layers of transparent membrane lies above the adhesive layer. The upper layer of the transparent pocket is 6 inches wide by 4¼ inches high and 0.00125″ thickness.

[0053] The lower layer of the transparent pocket is 6 inches wide by 4 inches high and has 0.00125″ thickness. The pocket is formed by fixing three of the four edges of the two layers of membrane to their respective edge on the card. In such an embodiment, the respective edges of the card and the membrane may be bonded together using heat. For example, this may carried out using a “Seal a Meal” bag-sealing device used in the catering industry or other device having a similar effect. The upper layer of the transparent membrane pocket is slightly larger than the lower layer and the excess transparent membrane lies above a strip of double-sided adhesive that is fixed at its lower surface to the said card. The upper surface of the double-sided adhesive tape is covered by a removable piece of paper that is of the same width but has greater length than the double-sided adhesive. The excess length of paper allows easy removal for sealing the item to be mailed in the pocket. When sealing of the alternative postcard is required the strip of paper is peeled off to expose the upper adhesive surface of the double-sided adhesive tape. The lower surface of the upper layer of transparent membrane is then secured to this adhesive strip.

[0054]FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. The drawing in FIG. 2 shows a piece of card upon which lies a layer of adhesive. A pocket formed from a transparent membrane that lies above the adhesive layer. The flap protrudes from the upper layer of the transparent pocket. On the underside of the flap is an area of covered adhesive. This adhesive would be uncovered to seal the pocket with its contents.

[0055]FIG. 3 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the present invention. This figure illustrates the manner in which the present invention is constructed. For the purpose of clarity we have featured the embodiment that uses the fold over flap sealing arrangement in this and the following illustrations as this is more visible than the sealing method used in FIG. 1. The illustrations show a card having a transparent sleeve attached to one side of that card by means of a transparent or virtually transparent adhesive. This transparent sleeve also has a transparent tab that extends over the end of the card. This tab can fold over to seal in the contents of the sleeve by sticking to the card.

[0056]FIG. 4 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. A single sheet of transparent material is fixed at the edges to one side of the card using transparent or virtually transparent adhesive. This sheet also has a transparent tab that extends over the end of the card. This tab can fold over to seal in the contents of the sleeve by sticking to the card.

[0057]FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. A single sheet of transparent material is placed over a piece of card. The transparent sheet is slightly larger than the card (as shown) and the excess material is folded over the edges of the card and fixed using adhesive on the other side of the card.

[0058]FIG. 6 illustrates the position of an optional tear off strip. These strips could be of any size from any of the cards edges and can be used for various purposes (see drawings 1 a, 1 b, 1 c and 1 d). The tear off portion would be part of the original piece of card but the removal of this section would be facilitated by a perforation along a portion of the card.

[0059]FIG. 7 illustrates the possible positions of the transparent fold over flaps and the other alternative sealing arrangements mentioned in the above designs. The sealing arrangement can be adjacent to any of the four edges of the card. (See drawings 2 a, 2 b, 2 c and 2 d).

[0060] A preferred embodiment of the device is the Photofits® device shown in FIG. 8. In this particular embodiment, a 4¾ inch by 6½ inch card is attached along three edges to a transparent membrane. An adhesive strip is affixed along the non-attached edge, said adhesive strip being activated by removal of a protective paper strip covering the adhesive material. In addition, the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 8 comprises a zippered score having a ¼ inch width positioned proximal to the optionally sealable edge of the device. As described above, following insertion of an item into the pocket formed between the upper surface of the card and the lower surface of the sheet and sealing of the pocket via the adhesive strip, the zippered score may be separated such that the item can be removed from the pocket. FIG. 8 refers to a photograph that can be inserted into the pocket. However, it should be understood that any suitable item may be inserted into the pocket. In addition, other features of this preferred embodiment can be inferred from the drawing in FIG. 8 by one of skill in the art.

[0061] Another embodiment of the instant invention is demonstrated in FIG. 9. As can be derived from FIG. 9, the device comprises a substantially rectangular card having distinct edges, the edges meeting at four corners cut at right angles. The device also comprises a transparent membrane attached to the card at three edges, leaving one edge unattached. Also provided by the device of FIG. 9 is an adhesive strip attached to the card and being covered by a removable material that prevents the adhesive strip from adhering to the transparent membrane. Also, the adhesive strip and the removable material are flush with two of the four edges of the card and are positioned near the unattached edge of the transparent membrane. A zippered score having a zippered score end tab is also demonstrated in FIG. 9. The zippered score and the unattached edge of the transparent membrane flank the adhesive strip and the removable material. In this way, removal of the removable material will activate the adhesive strip, thus allowing the user to adhere the adhesive strip to the transparent membrane. In one manner of using the device, a photograph or other item may be inserted into the pocket prior to activating the adhesive strip and adhering it to the transparent membrane. In such a manner, a sealed pocket is formed between transparent membrane and the card material and, in one manner of using the device, enclosing the photograph or other item within the sealed pocket. The pocket may then be opened by breaking the zippered score by, for example, grasping the zippered score end tab and applying pressure such that the zippered score is broken. If an item has been previously inserted into and sealed within the pocket, the item may then be removed from the pocket. Other attributes of the device shown in FIG. 9 may be ascertained from the figure itself.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first three edges are not completely sealed, but include a “spacer” area along the edge or in a corner, for example. One such embodiment is shown in FIG. 10. As shown therein, the fourth or top edge comprises an optionally activated adhesive material for fixation of the card to the membrane to form a sealed pocket. The card and the membrane are attached to one another along the vertical edges wherein a gap in this attachment is maintained at the approximate center of each of the edges. This allows for additional ease in inserting an item into the pocket. Of course, one of skill in the art would understand that the present invention is amenable to placement of the gap at somewhere other than the approximate center.

[0063] Additional gaps in the adhesive may be included at other positions in the card, such as in the corners distal from the optionally sealable edge comprising the optionally activated adhesive strip. This option is also shown in FIG. 10, and provides for further ease in inserting an item into the sealable pocket. Preferably, the bottom edge does not comprise any gaps in the adhesive, although it would be possible to do so.

[0064] Yet another option is illustrated by FIG. 10. As previously mentioned, the zippered score may be placed anywhere in the card, but is preferably positioned such that the item contained within the pocket can be removed without damaging the item. One illustration of this embodiment is shown in FIG. 10, as the zippered score is positioned opposite the optionally sealable edge. This provides added stability to the zippered score, as it is not disturbed during insertion of the item into the pocket. To aid in inserting the item into the pocket, a score line may be added below the optionally activatable adhesive strip. The score line provides added flexibility to the card, thus limiting potential damage to either the card or the item during the insertion process. The added flexibility can be achieved by a score line, a perforated line or a combination of the two, for example.

[0065] The device may also comprise an additional support means to hold the inserted item in place within the pocket. This support means may comprise an additional area of adhesion between the card and the transparent membrane, as shown in FIG. 10. In that embodiment, the support means is positioned below the zippered score area and above the bottom edge along which the card and the transparent membrane are attached to one another. Other suitable support means may also be used, as would be understood by one of skill in the art.

[0066]FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention, the Folding Photo Mailer (FPM). As for the other embodiments of this device, the FPM is designed to transport or protect a photograph or other item in the mail. The FPM comprises a piece of card of a suitable thickness such that the photograph or other item contained within the piece is protected. The dimensions of the FPM can be substantially varied, so long as the photograph or other item to be transported or protected fits within the pocket resulting from folding of the card. In addition, an opening is found within the card and a transparent membrane is attached to cover the opening to form a window for viewing the photo or other item contained within the FPM. The transparent membrane may comprise any suitable material that provides both protection from damage or external elements such as water or other material to the item contained within the FPM.

[0067] In FIG. 11, the card is 0.012 S.B.S. (solid bleached sulphate) and is constructed by dye-cutting the material in the form shown. A transparent membrane that is greater in size than the die cut aperture in panel A is fixed in position to cover the aperture, thus creating the transparent window through which the photograph or other item can be viewed following assembly and insertion of the photograph or other item. A means for sealing the piece is placed on the lower edge of upper surface of panel B. Any suitable means for sealing may be utilized so long as the photograph or other item is secured following activation of the sealing means. In a preferred embodiment, the sealing means comprises an adhesive strip covered with a strip of liner paper.

[0068] In one embodiment, the FPM is assembled by folding as follows. The side legs (C & D) are folded through 180 degrees and fixed in position to panel B. Panel A is folded through 180 degrees and fixed in position to the side legs C & D. In one embodiment, the panels are fixed in position using an adhesive material such as glue. Any suitable adhesive material may be utilized and such materials are well-known in the art. This assembly process creates a pocket into which an object can be placed. The FPM further comprises a zippered score, which provides a means for the removal of the contents after the piece has been sealed. Other attributes of the device shown in FIG. 11 may be ascertained from the figure itself.

[0069] It is to be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein are preferred examples and that various changes in the size, shape and arrangement may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. 

1. A device comprising a card and a transparent membrane that are at least partially affixed to one another and comprise multiple edges; said card comprising a zippered score; said card further comprising a sealing means that is optionally activated to affix at least one of said multiple edges of said card and transparent membrane to one another.
 2. The device of claim 1 wherein said zippered score is positioned adjacent to said sealing means.
 3. The device of claim 1 wherein said zippered score is positioned adjacent to the edge opposite the edge comprising said sealing means.
 4. The device of claim 3 wherein said card further comprising a score line adjacent to said sealing means.
 5. The device of claim 4 wherein said score line is perforated.
 6. The device of claim 1 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 7. The device of claim 2 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 8. The device of claim 3 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 9. The device of claim 4 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 10. The device of claim 5 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 11. The device of claim 1 wherein said card and said transparent membrane each comprise four edges.
 12. The device of claim 11 wherein said card further comprises wherein said zippered score is positioned adjacent to said sealing means.
 13. The device of claim 11 wherein said zippered score is positioned adjacent to the edge opposite the edge comprising said sealing means.
 14. The device of claim 13 wherein said card further comprising a score line adjacent to said sealing means.
 15. The device of claim 14 wherein said score line is perforated.
 16. The device of claim 11 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 17. The device of claim 12 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 18. The device of claim 13 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 19. The device of claim 14 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 20. The device of claim 15 wherein said card and transparent membrane are partially affixed to one another along one or more edges, wherein a gap is provided along at least one of said edges, said gap providing an area within which the card and the transparent membrane are not affixed to one another.
 21. A device comprising a card having multiple edges, said card comprising: a) an opening with a transparent membrane fixable attached across said opening such that a window is formed, b) an optionally activatable sealing means along at least one of said edges; and, c) a surface upon suitable for writing.
 22. The device of claim 21, said card further comprising a zippered score.
 23. A method for sending an item through the mail comprising inserting said item into a device selected from the group consisting of the device of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23, sealing the device by activating said sealing means, placing upon the device the proper postage, and entering said device into the mailing system. 